Suicide Prevention

Hiram College is participating in 'Green Week', March 24-28. Green is the color for suicide awareness and represents RENEWAL.

Today's post is a guest post by Dr. Kevin Feisthamel.

Suicide Prevention- What is helpful

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. The suicidal person is typically intensely ambivalent about killing himself or herself, and usually responds to help. Suicidal states are definitely time-limited and most who commit suicide are neither crazy nor psychotic. High risk indicators include: feelings of hopelessness; a severe loss or threat of loss; a detailed suicide plan; history of prior attempts; history of alcohol or other drug abuse; and feelings of alienation and isolation from others. Suicidal students usually want to communicate their feelings and any opportunity to do so should be encouraged. Listed below are some helpful responses, not so helpful responses and ways students, faculty, staff can help:

Helpful Responsesâ€”

â€˘ Taking the person seriously; 80% of suicides give warning of their intent.

â€˘ Acknowledging that a threat of suicide (or attempt) is a plea for help.